A PLAQUE bearing the names of 42 Islanders who served in the ‘Forgotten Army’ during the Second World War was unveiled at a ceremony on Sunday.
Two years ago, Islander Jean McLaughlin was successful in getting recognition for Jersey soldiers who fought in Burma by having a commemorative plaque put up at the foot of Mount Bingham.
And on Sunday, a second plaque commissioned by Mrs McLaughlin, featuring the names of those who fought in the ‘Forgotten Army’, was unveiled beneath the original one during a ceremony attended by Jersey’s Lieutenant-Governor, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Dalton, and Lady Dalton.
The British 14th Army became known as the Forgotten Army as they were still fighting in horrendous conditions after Europe had been liberated.
Mrs McLaughlin, whose father, Lance Corporal John Edward Quénault, served in the Dorset Regiment of the British 14th Army, said the plaque would help preserve the memory of those who fought in the war.
‘It was such a wonderful occasion,’ she said. ‘We had such a big crowd. I could not have asked for better. We all had a sing-song of Vera Lynn songs.
‘We had local historian Ian Ronayne as a speaker and he gave such an amazing speech.’
Mrs McLaughlin was joined at the event by her son, daughter, daughter-in-law, sister and grandchildren, Kristal, Holly and Luke.
